Patios are a great place to unwind and enjoy fresh air without being bothered by the sun or the rain. Whether you want to host birthday or retirement parties, grill some barbecues, or celebrate holiday cook-outs, it serves as a perfect spot.
If you have a patio, you must know how important patio doors are. They connect the indoor area to the deck and enhance the overall look of your home. Many homeowners also install patio doors to reduce energy costs. With natural light pouring in, the need for a heating system or an air conditioner decreases.
Are you planning to replace your patio doors but confused about whether that will add any value to your house? Read on to find out!
Types of Patio Doors Explained
- Sliding doors
Sliding doors, also known as gliding doors, are the most popular choice among Canadians. They consist of one fixed panel and one sliding panel that glides parallel to the wall.
- French doors
French doors or swinging doors come in various traditional and contemporary designs. These doors open outwards into the patio and act as a bridge between interior and exterior spaces.
- Bi-Folding doors
These units allow you to open your house to the garden more thoroughly than any other door type by breaking open an entire wall (or part of it).
Made up of glass and uPVC panels, these doors have hinges between each panel and the door frames, allowing them to fold on one side and open up one wall completely.
Among these three types, the two commonly used doors among homeowners are Sliding and French.
Sliding vs. French patio doors – Which One is Better?
Sliding doors are a good option if you want a wide-open view from floor to ceiling. The glass panels allow a transparent view of the outdoor space.
These doors are the most space-efficient doors among all the options. They don’t require any space to open inwards or outwards and take up only as much space as the wall, making them perfect for small spaces, crowded balconies, and patios.
If you prefer functionality over design, these doors are definitely better than the swinging or folding doors. However, since sliding doors glide towards one side, they leave a very narrow opening. So if you want to transport large furniture in or out of the patio, you may have to consider getting French doors.
French doors do not require center support so that both sides can open fully. However, you would need a larger space for the doors to open.
- You can’t go wrong with French patio doors if you want a more stylish look. The traditional appearance of these doors gives a timeless look and feel to your patio.
- They are available in various sizes and finishes giving you lots of options to choose from.
- French doors offer the best ventilation but are less energy efficient compared to sliding doors.
All in all, choosing the right patio door is essential. But which patio door is right for your home depends upon the size of your patio, your personal preference, and the climate of the area you live in.
How Much Value Will New Patio Doors Add To My Home?
Any renovation that involves increasing your home’s square footage has a very high return on investment. New, well-designed, and properly installed patio doors could raise as much as 20% value of your home.
Even if you do not plan to sell your house, just knowing that patio doors will add tremendous value to your home is quite satisfying. You may be able to remortgage your property!
Furthermore, statistics show that a patio can recover 85% of the installation cost compared to a new bathroom, which can only recover 78%. However, keep in mind that figures may be different for your renovation since it includes many factors, such as materials used, labor costs, and a reduction in energy bills. The most common frame materials used to manufacture Canadian patio doors are vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass.
- Aluminum and fibreglass frames are superior when it comes to durability.
- In contrast, wooden frames offer a lot of design variety and are aesthetically pleasing to the eyes.
- However, most homeowners prefer vinyl frames as they are energy-efficient and cost-effective. They are not aluminum but will still last as long as 25 years! You can also find many design options in vinyl frames.
How Much Do New Patio Doors Cost?
The cost varies depending upon whether you need to replace the entire door or certain parts. The final price is determined by various factors, including styles, materials, customization, hardware, and installation. However, on average, homeowners can expect the following prices for different patio door types:
| Style | Price |
| Sliding doors | $450-$2500 |
| French doors | $635-$3000 |
| Bi-folding doors | $1500-$6600 |
In Conclusion
Patio doors are a great way to allow natural light inside your home, improve ventilation and provide stunning backyard views. But if you plan to implement patio door replacement as your next home renovation project, knowing which door to choose for the maximum value is important. We hope this post has cleared up some points for you, and now you are ready to buy and install the best patio door for your home.
